Extensive fixed partial dentures on mandibular canine teeth: a 5-year recall study.

Twelve patients were followed for 5 years after treatment with a 12-unit cantilever fixed partial denture on the mandibular canines opposed by a complete maxillary denture. Two fixed dentures had to be removed, one because of an abutment tooth root-fracture and one because of rapid marginal bone loss in a terminal stage of leukemia. Caries and periodontal lesions were rare, but other complications, principally related to endodontics, occurred. All complications were amenable to standard treatment procedures. Extensive mandibular cantilever fixed partial dentures may be used in the rehabilitation of patients with a very reduced dentition and a history of difficulties in adapting to removable dentures.